Thu 09 Apr 2026
Considering a move in Surrey this year? Discover why a professional market appraisal is the best place to start, helping you understand value, timing and buyer demand.…
News
Mon 02 Mar 2026
From 1 May 2026, key tenancy reforms take effect. Our latest blog explains what Surrey landlords need to know and includes our updated Landlord Guide.…
Mon 09 Feb 2026
New energy efficiency rules are now confirmed - and from 1 October 2030, all rented homes must meet an EPC rating of C, unless a valid exemption applies. While the deadline may feel some way off, changes to how EPCs are assessed mean many landlords will need to plan sooner rather than later. …
Sun 01 Feb 2026
Surrey landlords - tax is going digital! From 2026, HMRC will require many landlords to submit tax returns digitally. Our latest blog breaks down what you need to do now to get ready, whether you’ve got one cottage in Shere or a portfolio in Woking.…
Wed 14 Jan 2026
Landlords, are you planning to grow your portfolio in 2026? You're not alone - two-thirds of landlords are taking action this year despite market shifts. In our latest blog, we explore why investor confidence remains strong, how to navigate the current landscape, and how Wills & Smerdon can help you make the smartest possible property decisions - from sourcing to letting and beyond.…
Tue 13 Jan 2026
The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 has officially become law - and major reforms are set to roll out from spring 2026. For Surrey landlords, this means stricter enforcement, bigger fines, and more responsibility. Our latest blog breaks down what’s changing, how it affects local landlords, and how Wills & Smerdon can help you stay fully compliant and stress-free.…
Tue 16 Dec 2025
Thinking of moving in 2026? The smartest sellers are already getting ahead. Whether you're planning to upsize, downsize or relocate, a little preparation before the New Year rush can make all the difference. Discover 5 expert tips to help you sell faster, stress less, and get a better price in the Surrey property market - from first impressions to timelines that actually work.…
Mon 01 Dec 2025
The Autumn Budget 2025 brings in new tax rules that could impact many homeowners and landlords across Surrey. From a ‘Mansion Tax’ on £2M+ homes to rising tax rates for rental income, we break down what it means for you - and what to do next. Whether you're selling, investing, or simply planning ahead, don’t miss our expert roundup and advice.…
Mon 17 Nov 2025
Thinking of buying a rental property? With more landlords choosing limited companies to boost tax efficiency and portfolio growth, we explore the pros, cons, and what to watch out for in the Autumn Statement on 26th November. If you're a landlord in Surrey, don't miss this essential read.…
Mon 27 Oct 2025
The Renters' Rights Bill has now completed the Report Stage and will return for "ping-pong" when Parliament returns in September after the Summer break. With Royal Assent expected before the end of 2025 or early 2026, big changes are just around the corner.…
Wed 15 Oct 2025
The Government’s Renters’ Rights Bill could be a game-changer for Surrey landlords. While local councils have historically been slow to prosecute, the new rules will make fines easier to issue, much higher in value, and financially rewarding for councils to enforce.…
Wed 15 Oct 2025
Sell before or after Christmas? If you're thinking about a move, now might be the perfect time. Surrey looks stunning in winter, and with downsizers leading the market, there's more opportunity than you might think.…
Tue 30 Sep 2025
With over £107 million recovered from tax investigations this year alone, it’s clear the stakes are high - especially for ‘accidental landlords’ who may not even realise they’ve made a mistake.…
Wed 10 Sep 2025
The Renters' Rights Bill is bringing big changes to how landlords can increase rent, and Section 13 will soon be your only option. Let Wills & Smerdon take the stress out of lettings.…
Tue 19 Aug 2025
Old-school charm only goes so far, especially in the rental market. If you’re a landlord with long-term tenants or a property that hasn’t had a refresh in years, it might be time to rethink. We explore why modernising your rental is more than just a nice-to-have, it’s a necessity.…
Tue 19 Aug 2025
Surrey landlords - discover five smart, legal ways to cut your tax bill, maximise rental profits, and stay compliant. From ownership structure to expenses, here’s how to keep more of your rental income.…
Wed 02 Jul 2025
With the Renters Reform Bill coming into effect, landlords face more risk than ever before. Learn how Wills & Smerdon’s updated Rent Protection Insurance safeguards your income and your property - whatever 2025 brings. …
Tue 10 Jun 2025
Discover how to find homes in Surrey with value-adding potential; from layout tweaks to garden access and hidden legal wins.…
Thu 22 May 2025
With more homes on the market and asking prices dropping, May 2025 is shaping up as a buyer's market. Discover how Surrey sellers can stay competitive, and why this might just be a golden window for savvy investors.…
Fri 11 Apr 2025
New rules incoming! From May 2025, all letting agents must follow updated financial sanctions regulations – no matter the rental value. Surrey landlords and tenants, here's how this impacts you.…
Tue 18 Mar 2025
Struggling to secure a rental? Many landlords require a guarantor—but if you don’t have one, RentGuarantor can help! As a Propertymark-endorsed service, it offers a quick, hassle-free way to get a professional guarantor, making your application more attractive to landlords. ✅ No need to ask family or friends—just apply online and move with confidence!…
Thu 13 Mar 2025
Landlords, are you making the most of your tax deductions? Understanding your tax obligations is essential to maximising your rental income and staying compliant with HMRC. From deductible expenses to mortgage interest changes and non-resident landlord rules, our latest blog—written by Sara Grey, Lettings Manager—covers everything you need to know to keep your finances in check. Read now to ensure you’re not paying more tax than necessary!…
Wed 05 Feb 2025
Are you a Surrey landlord navigating the Renters' Reform Bill? Stay ahead of the changes with Wills & Smerdon. We’re here to guide you through key reforms like the abolition of Section 21, the introduction of Awaab’s Law, and the Decent Homes Standard. …
Wed 15 Jan 2025
Attention Surrey landlords! Are you up to date with the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) and its impact on your rental properties? With the Renters’ Reform Bill on the horizon, ensuring compliance is more crucial than ever. Discover how Wills & Smerdon, your trusted Propertymark member agency, can help you navigate these complex regulations, protect your investment, and provide safe homes for your tenants. Read our latest blog to stay ahead of the curve and learn why professional property management is your best defence against non-compliance risks.…
Mon 06 Jan 2025
Wills & Smerdon are proud Propertymark members with a qualified team ready to handle the challenges of the 2025 rental market. From ensuring compliance with new regulations to maximising your property’s potential, we offer stress-free, professional management tailored to your needs.…
Wed 18 Dec 2024
A look back at Surrey’s housing market trends in 2024 and key insights for 2025, focusing on East Horsley, Ripley, and surrounding areas. Perfect for landlords, sellers, and buyers looking to plan their property moves.…
Fri 22 Nov 2024
Looking to navigate the Surrey property market with confidence? At Wills and Smerdon, our Propertymark accreditation ensures you’re working with trusted experts who are always ahead of the curve. Whether you're buying, selling, letting, or renting, our commitment to professional excellence means you can rely on us for clear advice, seamless transactions, and exceptional service.…
Tue 05 Nov 2024
The open-plan layout not only maximises space but creates a warm, social hub perfect for modern family living. Embrace a home that enhances togetherness and adds potential value with a functional, stylish kitchen space everyone can enjoy.…
Mon 09 Sep 2024
Should you manage your rental properties through a Limited Company? Our latest blog explores the pros and cons for landlords in the UK, with key insights into tax savings, liabilities, and financing options.…
Tue 27 Aug 2024
Explore the benefits of selling your Surrey home in September. With fewer competing properties and a surge of motivated buyers, this month offers an optimal window for a swift and profitable sale.…
Tue 09 Jul 2024
Prepare your home for sale this summer with essential home improvement tasks. From patio cleaning to garden furniture setup, learn how to enhance your property’s appeal and attract potential buyers.…
Tue 09 Jul 2024
Chancellor Rachel Reeves announces a review of the National Planning Policy Framework, aiming to boost housebuilding by unblocking stalled projects and empowering local planning authorities. This initiative highlights housing as a key to economic growth.…
Wed 05 Jun 2024
Discover how Wills & Smerdon enhances the lettings experience with innovative technology. Learn about the efficiency of Goodlord Pro referencing and the convenience of digital signing in our latest blog.…
Tue 30 Apr 2024
Are you a landlord in Surrey considering the shift to a limited company for your buy-to-let properties? Explore the financial and tax benefits, understand the additional responsibilities, and learn why this investment structure might be advantageous in Surrey's thriving property market.…
Tue 05 Mar 2024
In the unpredictable world of property rentals, even the most diligent landlords can face unexpected challenges, that's why our landlords have comprehensive Rent Guarantee Insurance!…
Sun 25 Feb 2024
Discover expert tips for a seamless move with your furry friends in Surrey. From preparing your pet to settling into your new home, Wills & Smerdon guide you through every step, ensuring a happy transition for both you and your pets. Ideal for buyers, sellers, and renters alike.…
Tue 02 Jan 2024
Unlocking Informed Choices: Your Guide to Material Information in Property Listings for both Sales and Lettings. Know what to look for when buying or renting a property in Surrey.…
Tue 02 Jan 2024
Discover what's in store for Surrey's rental market in 2024. Explore Zoopla's predictions and local insights for areas served by Wills & Smerdon, including #Cobham, #Woking, and more.…
Tue 19 Sep 2023
Loft conversions are a popular home improvement project in the UK, allowing homeowners to maximise their available space and potentially add value to their property. However, not all lofts can be converted. There are several factors that homeowners need to consider to determine if their loft is suitable for conversion.…
Tue 12 Sep 2023
The 13th annual Gas Safety Week sees organisations from across the UK working together to raise awareness of the dangers of poorly maintained gas appliances, which can cause gas leaks, fires, explosions and carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. Find out about our input into this important safety week.…
Fri 18 Aug 2023
According to the UK Green Building Council, 80% of buildings that will be occupied in 2050 already exist today, meaning that retrofitting existing homes is critical. In this article we look at how you can improve the energy-efficiency of your property and what that will mean to the value of your home or rental stock.…
Thu 17 Aug 2023
Renting out a property comes with a lot of expenses, but, fortunately, you can deduct a variety of "allowable expenses" from your gross rental revenue to help lower your tax payment. Find out how.…
Thu 27 Jul 2023
Routine property inspections are a requirement of your tenancy agreement and are intended to serve the interests of both you and your landlord. If your rental property is managed by Wills and Smerdon, we will organise these visits so that we can confirm to your landlord that the property is kept up-to-date and that any required repairs or issues are swiftly rectified.…
Tue 11 Jul 2023
Get your home 'market ready' and attract more potential buyers, sell quicker and for more money, by following our 10 top tips.…
Thu 15 Jun 2023
It is important for tenants to understand that a landlord cannot insure any of the tenants possessions in their rental home, so we urge all tenants to look at the benefits of tenants insurance when renting with us. Find out more…
Tue 06 Jun 2023
Creating a wildlife-friendly garden is a wonderful way to support biodiversity and enjoy the beauty of nature. Here are some tips to make your garden more wildlife friendly.…
Tue 16 May 2023
If you are thinking of taking the plunge and buying a new home soon, we have listed the steps in the buying process and our indication of how long it takes to get the keys to your new home.…
Mon 24 Apr 2023
In order to assist the government in achieving its goal of net zero carbon emissions by 2050, the Climate Change Committee suggests that all UK dwellings achieve an EPC of band C. With a 2030 target for privately rented homes, UK landlords should start planning ahead because, according to Savills analysts, the cost of upgrading an average D-rated property to a C will be £12,746.…
Thu 12 Jan 2023
Is 2023 going to be the year when you take the plunge and buy a house?…
Mon 15 Aug 2022
We are writing to inform you that there has been an amendment to the Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm Regulations which comes into force on 1 October 2022. As a result of these regulations, we need to visit our rental properties to ensure that we comply with the amended regulations.…
Wed 13 Jul 2022
The definition of material information is from the Consumer Protection Regulations 2008 and states the following: “any information which the average consumer needs in order to make an informed transactional decision”…
Thu 05 May 2022
The passing of a loved one can be hard enough at any time. Sorting out the estate shouldn’t cause you further grief but at times it can feel quite stressful.…
Thu 07 Apr 2022
Renting can be a rewarding experience for most landlords, but there are occasions when you need to reclaim possession of your property. There are 3 main ways this can happen.…
Fri 07 Jan 2022
The pandemic has changed a lot of things, not least the property landscape in the UK.…
Fri 03 Dec 2021
It’s no secret that reusing old stuff to make new and useful items is on the up. Upcycling has been sweeping the world from creating useful items in the home, for storage and even for the garden.…
Thu 25 Nov 2021
Cold crisp morning, seeing your breath, colourful leaves. All things that Autumn/Winter brings with it. It’s also a great time to check for any hidden problems in your home.…
Sun 29 Aug 2021
Now restrictions are easing it’s becoming more and more likely that you will be going away on holiday.…
Fri 30 Jul 2021
Climate change is an issue we’re all hearing a lot about for very good reason. Finding ways to improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions to help slow down the impact on our planet is at the forefront of a lot of people’s minds. …
Wed 31 Mar 2021
Back on the 22nd February 2021, the Prime Minister announced his roadmap for easing lockdown restrictions in England. One of the first stages of this, involved being able to meet in groups of up to 6 people outdoors (while still adhering to social distancing guidelines) but crucially, as well as in public spaces this applies to private gardens, too. …
Wed 03 Mar 2021
Rishi Sunak, Chancellor of the Exchequer, gave his budget spending plan today, for navigating out of the Covid-19 pandemic which has led to increased levels of public spending over the last year. The general approach, is that spending will remain higher than average for the next year, before measures are introduced in order to reduce the level of government spending while still growing the economy.…
Wed 24 Feb 2021
To recap, the Tenant Fee Act, which came into effect on 1st June 2019, limited the deposit a tenant has to pay to the equivalent of five weeks rent and a landlord can no longer ask for any extra rent as a pet deposit. We have therefore been researching schemes which increase the protection offered to you.…
Tue 05 Jan 2021
According to the Deposit Protection Service (DPS), over half of the claims against deposits made in 2020 by landlords, were for cleaning or making repairs to the property or its contents.…
Tue 03 Nov 2020
On 28th January the Government issued its updated Model Tenancy Agreement with consent for pets as the default position.…
Tue 03 Nov 2020
After much thought and consideration, we have decided to slightly change our tenancy agreements so that if they continue after the initial fixed term on a periodic basis, they will do so as contractual periodic tenancies, instead of statutory periodic tenancies. These changes will be for new lets starting in November 2020 and do not apply to existing tenancies.…
Fri 23 Oct 2020
As an agent, one of the things we do when letting property is conduct referencing and tenant checks to ensure they’re suitable tenants for the property. This is a thorough process in order to protect both landlords and tenants, and as you might imagine takes quite a bit of time if you do it manually. We use Goodlord, to help us free up time spent on admin.…
Mon 28 Sep 2020
Since the 20th September 2020, the Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government (MHCLG) are now hosting a combined England & Wales and Northern Ireland EPC register on a .gov website.…
Fri 11 Sep 2020
At Wills & Smerdon we believe in protecting our landlords against all eventualities. This has been exceptionally important during 2020, when the unthinkable happened, and many tenants were simply unable to pay their rent, due to no fault of their own, in other words, COVID-19 happened!…
Wed 02 Sep 2020
The latest announcement from Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick suggests the eviction ban WILL end at last on September 20. However, more concessions have been made with a commitment from the government not to stage evictions over the Christmas period in England, while in parts of the country undergoing local lockdowns there will be no enforcement of evictions by bailiffs.…
Wed 05 Aug 2020
Understandably, there have been lots of questions surrounding the changing procedures of possession claims due to Covid-19 disruptions.…
Thu 09 Jul 2020
Property Portal Rightmove have done some data crunching, and using their own data as well as a recent survey of 4,000 home movers, they’ve discovered that since lockdown there has been a marked shift in the priorities of those looking to move home.…
Wed 08 Jul 2020
RECEIVE YOUR LETTINGS LEGISLATION CHECKLIST…
Mon 15 Jun 2020
The Covid 19 crisis has presented many challenges to ensure we work safely and effectively whilst continuing to provide you with outstanding customer service. I am therefore pleased to announce that we have partnered with a company called Goodlord who offer an online system designed to manage the “pre-tenancy“ process in one place. Therefore, once we have found you a new tenant Goodlord will assist us with the administration in the following ways:…
Wed 13 May 2020
Last night the property industry received the news that estate and letting agency businesses can re-open the doors and resume business today. Over the last few weeks, there has been a huge amount of change in our everyday life. The Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, laid out his plan on Sunday as to what life might start to look like as the virus is brought under further control and restrictions can begin to ease, and what is clear, is that we all need to be ready to adapt going forward – so we had already started preparing, potentially for re-opening in June, so it was rather a surprise to hear last night’s news!…
Mon 27 Apr 2020
Have you considered the heating system in your refurbishment project? To be honest, it’s not the first thing that people imagine when they’re designing their dream home. However, there’s a lot that goes into a heating system, and getting the right one really can make a house a home. This is particularly poignant when heating an old house, where the cold can easily creep in and make for uncomfortable habitation.…
Mon 06 Apr 2020
Despite social distancing measures putting a stop to all moves which aren’t deemed essential (see our recent blog post on this), maybe you’ve recently moved into a home which requires a lot of decorating and being confined to the four walls has given you the drive to get stuck in. But when you’re faced with a lot of decorating, knowing where to start can be tough!…
Wed 19 Feb 2020
Wed 19 Feb 2020
Tue 18 Feb 2020